Welsh Gazette and West Wales Advertiser

DOLGELLEY. OBITUARY.—On Monday the death took place of Mr. G. Owen, barber, of this town, after only a week's illness, at the advanced age of 79 years. His remains were interred on Wednesday. IMPROVEMENT.—Mr R. C. Evans has closed in the land before the Talbot Hotel, and has by this means effected a very great improvement at that place. EXCHANGE OF PULPITS.-On Sunday,the Revc Peter Jones, (W); preached at the Calvinisti Methodist Chapel, and the Rev John Williams, B.A., (C.M) preached at the Wesleyan Chapel. THE LATE DR. EDWARD JONES' MEMORIAL.— The subscriptions towards the memorial of the late Dr Edward Jones, up to last Thursday had reached a total of £ 87 lis 6d. The subscription list will be closed on June 2nd, TEMPERANCE MEETING.—A temperance meet- ing was held on Friday evening at the Bethel Chapel. Mr R. Wynne Williams occupied the chair, and stirring addresses were delivered by the Revs T. Talwyn Phillips, B.D., Bala; and J. Eiddon Jones, Bangor. IN THE HOSPITAL."—That was the sad news which reached Mr Thomas Davies, Lion-street, in a letter from his son D R Davies, who is serving with the 10th Hussars in South Africa. Davies we regret to learn is seriously ill with a fever. That he will soon recover is the ardent wish of all his friends and comrades. REHEARSALS.—On Sunday Mr R. Davies, held a rehearsal at the Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in preparation for the forthcoming festival in June. Also on Sunday last a rehearsal was conducted by Mr. Morgan Williams, Arthog at the Baptist Chapel, preparatory for the festival on Monday. The sing- ing at both was considered to be fully up to the mark. FREE LIBRARY COMMITTEE: ALIVB OR DEAD. -What has become of the committee that was appointed to consider the matter of a Free Library for the town. Is it not a shame that such worthy matter should be allowed to drop and fall through from sheer indifference. A large number of the young men here earnestly hope that the committee will soon awake to their duties, and give careful consideration to the subject. MUSICAL FESTIVAL.—The annual musical fes- tival of the Wesleyans was held on Monday last. There was a fair attendance from every church in the district. All the meetings were held at the Wesleyan chapel, and were presided over by the Rev. Peter Jones, Dolgelley, Mr Thomas Owen, Dolgelley, and Mr Owen Williams, Barmouth. The leader of the music was Mr Robert Griffith, Bar- mouth. The accompanist was Mr John Lloyd, A.C., Dolgelley. Mr Tom Parry conducted the meeting; Rev J. Cynfal Jones adjudicated the music; Rev Robert Jones adjudicated the essays. Prizes were awarded as follows:—Chief essay, Egwyddorion Protestaniaid," Mr M. J. Morris, Barmouth; another essay, Mr Humphrey Lewis, Cambrian Establishment, Barmouth; recitation, Mr Morton James Davies, Dolgelley; Winnie Jones, Dolgelley; Mary Evans, Dolgelley; music, Miss Williams, Harlech; children's choir from Dolgelley under the conductorship of Mr D. R. Meredith; duett, Miss Winnie Williams, Marine House, Bar- mouth, and Master Griffith, Vulcan Villa, Bar- mouth; solo for children, Master Griffith, Bar- mouth, and Master R. Rowland Jones, Dolgelley; Party of six, Morfa Rhuddlan," Dolgelley party, under the conductorship of Mr E. W. Roberts. A great number of tunes were sung during the day, and in the evening the anthem, Moeswch i'r Arglwydd was sung excellently. ALLEGED FRAUD ON SHOPKEEPERS.—At the Petty Sessions on Tuesday, before Mr Munro Edwards and other magistrates, Francis Thomas Benbow, of 17 York-street, Bath, was brought up in custody charged with having obtained money by false pretences from three tradesmen in the town, Mr R. Guthrie Jones appeared to prosecute on I behalf of the police; Mr R. Jones Griffith repre- sented the accused.—Sergeant Owen, Dolgelley, said he apprehended the prisoner at Conway. In answer to the charges, the accused replied that lie would say what he had to say before the bench.— W. Allen, proprietor of the Star Stores, Dolgelley, said that on the 23rcl of last month the prisoner called at his shop. He said he represented the Direct Supply Cutlery Company," and showed him a printed card with the name on. He also showed some samples of cutlery. The witness gave him an order to the value of 5s 2d., and the accused gave him a receipt, which he now produced. The prisoner told him that it was the custom of the firm to allow discount, and he returned twopence. The accused told him that the goods were at Barmouth, being to heavy to carry about with him. They would be sent the next morning and enclosed in a package addressed to Davies and Co., of the New Shop. He had not received any of the goods he then ordered and paid for. [The address of the firm was at the top of the receipt which the prisoner gave him. Not receiving the goods, he wrote to that address, but got no reply.—Detective Sergeant Smith, Bath, said there was no company in Bath known as the Direct Supply Cutlery Com- pany." He knew the address, 17. York-street. It was a small temperance hotel, and was kept by the prisoner's wife. There was no other business carried on there.—Two other charges of obtaining by false pretences the sum of 2s 100. from Davies and Co., the New Shop, and 3s from R. Davies, confectioner, were further proceeded with.—Mr Mr William Davies said he carried on business with his brother under the style of Davies and Co. On the 23rd ult the accused called at their shop. He said he was sorry that he had no cards, and asked them to look at a printed billhead. He simply said he represented the firm mentioned thereon. They gave an order to the value 2s lOd, and thejgoods were to be sent on to them. He bad a receipt for the money he paid. He had not yet had the goods.—Robert Davies said he carried on the Criterion Temperance Hotel and a confectionery shop. The accused called upon him, and said he represented the Direct Supply Cutlery Company." The witness asked him for his card, but he replied that he had none, and handed a printed memor- andum. He agreed to take goods to the value of 3s and paid for them. The accused showed him samples. He took a fancy to a knife, but the accused would not sell the sample. The goods were to be sent on. He had not yet received them.- The Bench on the three charges committed the accused to take his trial at the Quarter Sessions. RURAL DISTRICT COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the Dolgelley Rural District Council was held on Saturday last at the County Hall, Dolgelley. Mr John Evans, Barmouth, presided, and there were also present—Messrs John Roberts, Griffith Richards, and John Edwards, Brithdir and Islawrdref; Charles Williams and Ellis Williams, Llanaber: Ellis Pughe Jones, Llan- ddwywe-is; Morris G. Williams, Llanenddwyn; Meyrick Roberts, Llanfihangel; Robert Hughes, Llanfachreth; Cadwaladr Roberts, Llangelynin; Owen Jones, Llanymawddwy; and John Pughe Jones, Talyllyn with W. R. Davies (clerk), W. R. Richardson (deputy clerk), and W. Jones (inspec- tor and surveyor). NEW BYE-LAWS. The standing orders were suspended for the con- sideration of new bye-laws, drawn up by the medical officer and sanitary inspector, on the fol- lowing subjects :—1—New streets and buildings; 2-Nuisance removal; 3-Common lodging-houses; 4—Slaughter-houses; 5-Closing of footpaths; 6— Removal of house refuse and cleansing of earth closets; 7-Regulation of cowsheds and dairies. On the motion of Mr Charles Williams, seconded by Mr Cadwaladr Roberts, these were approved of, and the clerk was directed to take the necessary steps to have the same ratified by the Local Go- vernment Board. MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT. The medical officer reported that he had visited six houses in Tanybryn-street, Abergynolwyn, the walls of which were very damp through the absence of troughing at back and front. There were also very foul pit-privies, all of which ought to be re-constructed. The sanitary condition of the Board School of the village was not satisfactory. The privies were constructed on an objectional plan, and should be replaced by proper dry earth closets. On March 27th, he examined Ffriddgoch, Llanfachreth. The floor of one department on the ground storey was most defective. The sleeping rooms upstairs had no ceilings or fireplace, the roof was low, quite in contact with the beds. These rooms had only skylights for light and ventilation. The gable wall was in contact with the soil to a considerable height, and there were no eaves-troughs. On April 5th he visited Dyffryn and examined Ystumgwern farmhouse. The house itself was not satisfactory, some of the walls very damp, and the roof was very defective in some parts. The floor of the dairy was bad. He examined the water supply of the house, which consisted of a shallow well which was in his opinion situated in a most objectionable position, some little distance below the house and also below the level of the extensive farm buildings, which naturally drained towards the well. It was ascertained that the water in the well bad been seen very polluted and foul after heavy rains. There was also a large pit privy full of human excrement, which had not been cleaned for many years. So large an accumulation of filth was in itself a most dangerous thing. The privy was situated above the level of the well, but some distance from it. Also examined Llanenddviryn Farm, in the same parish. The dairy was most unsatisfactory. The floor.consisted mainly of bare earth. There were no eaves troughs. There was a pail closet, the pail of which was. near to over- flowing. He also examined Plasmartha in the same parish. The floor was defective. There was a small sleeping chamber on the ground floor with- out fireplace, into which the water found its way in bad weather. The sleeping apartments upstairs were quite unfit as suçh. The roof was very low, and there was no ventilation, as the skylights were not made to open. There was a cowshed attached to the lower gable of the house. Also examined the water course at Llanaber, into which the drain from Penllwyd-terrace, had been allowed to dis- charge its contents. The water course was perfectly dry at the time of his visit and he had, therefore, considerable objection to let the drain discharge into it. On the 9th April, learnt that no improvements had been made in the sanitary conveniences of the inn at Llwyngwril. Also learnt that no improvements had been carried out at Berthlwyd Farm, near Dolgelley. On the 23rd April, examined Glanywern, Celynin, and found that the drain discharged its contents into a stagnant ditch close to the main road, and the emanation from it was decidedly dangerous at the time of his visit. The drain should be carried j.way further from the house and the road. There was a water closet inside the house which dis- charged its contents into a cesspool, which had not been cleaned out for many years. The soil pipe was not properly disconnected, and ventilated. The drainage of this house ought to be entirely re-arranged. He had again received complaints of the pollution of BraiShcoch Well, Corris, which he had previously reported upon many months ago. With regard to the six houses at- Abergynol- wyn, it was decided to call upon the owners" to do the repairs in one month, and also to call upon the School Board to provide dry earth closets at the school within a similar period. The Board agreed to give three months grace in the cases of Ffridd- goch, Llanenddwyn, and Plasmartha, and two months in the cases of Penllwyd and Berthlwyd, and if the repairs were not carried out by then that proceedings be taken. In reference to Ystum- gwern, it was decided to call the attention of Mr Ansell (agent), and the tenant, to the defects, with the request that the same be remedied as soon as possible. It was also decided that one month notices be served in rpnpt. of thA inn atS Llwyngwril, Glanywern, and Braichgoch. It was also decided to request the manager of the Corris Railway to prevent the pollution of the Braichcoch Well. ABERGYNOLWYN WATER SUPPLY. A letter was read from Mr Wm. Jones, Clerk of the Llanfihangel-y-Pennant Parish Council regard- ing the water supply of Abergynolwyn. The matter had been before the Council several times during the past year, and it was arranged to have water on a small scale in order to avoid expense as far as possible. A scheme was forwarded to the District Council for their approval, but the Parish Council were prevented by the landowner from going on to the Hendre land to secure a water supply for the upper portion of the village, except on the understanding that the owners of the houses in the village bore the cost and not the ratepayers. Therefore the Parish Council had no right to interfare further in that matter. They had also made an appeal for water for that part of the village, but this was also refused by the land-owner because of particular reasons. The Council bad now begun the work of securing water for the lower part of the village, and it was hoped it would be completed satisfactorily before six weeks' time. The Parish Council desired to be released from the responsi- bility of supplying the upper portion of the parish with water, and this because they bad done all in their power, but had been unsuccessful. Mr E. Pughe Jones said the residents themselves did not make any effort to get a water supply, and threw all the responsibility on the ratepayers. After some discussion, it was decided, on the proposition of Mr Cadwaladr Roberts, that the medical officer and inspector visit the place, and present a report at the next meeting on the question of a proper water supply. MEDICAL OFFICER'S ANNUAL REPORT. The question of printing the medical officer's annual report, read at the previous meeting, was discussed. It was stated by the Clerk that 2,500 i copies were printed last year—700 in English and 1,800 in Welsh. It was stated that the expense last year amounted to £17 or E18, which included the cost of translating. Mr M. G. Williams proposed, and Mr E. Pngho Jones seconded, that in order to avoid as much expense as possible that the report be only printed in English. Mr G Richards proposed as an amendment, and Mr Ellis Williams seconded, that the report be printed in English and Welsh as last year, and that a similar number of copies be secured. On a division, the amendment was carried by seven votes to three. CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION. A letter was read from a milk seller pointing out that as the Council and the medical officer had re- quested him to discontinue supplying milk at Dol- gelley, it meant a loss of six weeks' trade. For this he claimed 20s. for every week that he was prevented from carrying on his business, besides a fair compensation for loss of customers and trade. After a discussion, a committee was appointed to go into the matter. DYFFRYN WATER SUPPLY. The Clerk read a letter from the Dyffryn Parish Council stating that they would oppose the appli- cation to the Local Government Board on the occa- sion of the local inquiry, on account of the insuffi- ciency, &c., of the proposed supply. INSPECTOR'S REPORT. The inspector of nuisances reported that during the year 1899 there were 159 cases of sanitary de- fects and nuisances reported. Of these, 112 had been attended to; 24 cases were pending; and 23 remained unattended. The Council decided that formal notice should be served in each case unattended to with a view to that notice, when the term expired, being followed up by legal proceedings to enforce the requirements of the Council. NEW SEWERS. The inspector, acting as surveyor, was directed to prepare and produce at the next meeting a plan, specification and estimate for two sewers-one at Lower Corris and the Oiner at Braichgoch, and in the interval to consult the Parish Council as to the complaints. It was explained that the costs in- curred would be a parochial charge. HOUSE REPAIR. In the cases of Ty Isaf and Ty'r Efail, belonging to Dr William Williams, 54, Rodney-street, Liver- pool, the clerk was directed to write to him stating that the medical officer of health had again called attention to these two dwelling-houses, nothing having been done to them in the way of repairs, and asking him to have them carried out as soon as possible. DYFFRYN SCHOOL. The clerk was directed to write to the Dyffryn School Board requesting to be furnished with a sketch plan of the drainage of the school. DRAINAGE OF LLANEGRYN. The Clerk was [directed to write to the clerk of ■ the County Council enquiring what steps had been taken, if any, to improve the drainage of Llanegryn, and also what had transpired in reference to the subject at the County Council meeting. HIGHWAY BOARD. A meeting of the Highway Board was also held on Saturday last immediately following the meet- ing of the Rural District Council, Mr John -Evans, Barmoutb, again presiding. APPOINTMENT OF SURVEYOR. On the proposition of Mr J. Pughe Jones, seconded by Mr Ellis Williams, it was decided that Mr William Williams be re-appointed sur- veyor for the ensuing year at the same salary. NOTICE OF MOTION. Mr Robert Hughes gave notice that he would move a resolution dealing with the Tynygroes Bridge three months hence. REPAIRS WANTED. A letter was read from the Llangelynin Parish Council complaining of the bad state of the road from the Old Turnpike, Friog, towards Barmouth Ferry. The Surveyor said he had visited and inspected the road, and thought it could be put in proper repair with a week's labour. The Board instructed the surveyor to place work- men on the road to have the work carried out. APPROACH TO BARMOUTH JUNCTION. Mr. W. R. Davies wrote complaining of the approach road to Barmouth Junction, which was being obstructed and made impassable for carriage traffic. It was reported by the surveyor and clerk that the road being a private one, they could take no steps in the matter. MORE BAD ROADS. A letter was read from the Parish Council of Brithdir and Islawrdref complaining of the condi- tion of several roads within the parish. The communication was referred to the sur- veyor, who was requested to inspect and report thereon.

Births, marriages and Deaths. BIRTHS. MATHIAS-On trye 6th inst, at 67, Park-place, Cardiff, the wife of Richard Mathias, of a son. MARRIAGES. EDWARDS—HILL—On May 2nd, at the Parish Church. Ludlow, by the Rev E. Ff. Clayton, M.A., rector! Lewis Charles Edwards, M.B., son of the late Rev Thomas Charles Edwards, D.D., principal of the Theological College, Bala, to Lilian, third daughter of the late Robert C. Hill, Esqr.. Newcastle, Staff., and of Mrs Lyon, Killiney, Co. Dublin. DEATHS. JONES—May 4th, atPenbrvnrodyn, Llanbadarn, Joseph Jones, carrier, aged 66 years. JAlklEs-May 4th, at Infirmary, Thomas James, of Glanystwyth, cowman, aged 54 years. Lywis-Alay 3rd, at Pendre, Llanbadarn, Lewis Lewis, tailor, aged 59 years. OWEN-May 7th, at Dolgelley, G. Owen, barber, aged 79 years. Printed and Published by the Proprietor, GEORGB REES, at the WELSH GAZETTE" Printerieg, Bridge-street, Aberystwyth. in the County of Cardigan. Thursday, May 10th, 1900.

ABERYSTWYTH. DISTINGUISHED VISITOR.—On Friday evening next. Professor Kuno Meyer, of Liverpool, will de- liver a public lecture in the college, his subject being Problems in Early Welsh and Irish Litera- tare." The European reputation of Professor Meyer, and the interesting subject with which he is to deal should secure a full audience. A NEw DEPARTURE.—The Council of the Univer- sity College has made arrangements for opening a Hostel for men students at the beginning of next (1900-1901) session. It will be located in Evelyn House, on the Victoria Marine Terrace, and will be under the charge of a highly qualified University graduate as warden. LITERARY.—The late lr. Nicholas Bennett's valuable collection of old Welsh instruments, music and books were sold by auction at Newtown on Thursday. The sale attracted a large number of buyers, and some of the rarer treasures in art and literature fetched good prices. Mr. T. W. Powell made some excellent purchases in rare old Welsh tomes. ENTER SUMMER.—The season will be started on Saturday next when Mr. Gilbert Kogers and his merry troopers will commence operations in the town. The early arrival of the minstrels will no doubt be a valuable contribution towards com- mencing the season at a much earlier date than hitherto. Mr. Rogers has a company of 17 refined minstrels. It goes without saying that his opening concert at the Pavilion on Saturday will be crowned with success. INTERCESSION.—On Sunday evening the service in St. Michael's Church was closed with a solemn form of intercession on behalf of Her Majesty's naval and military forces now in South Africa. Petitions were included on behalf of those who -suffer,-the sick and such as are in captivity, the -wounded, the dying and the mourners as well as fos those who are gone forth to minister the to souls and bodies of the suffering. The intercession was -very impressive. THE ROMAN CATHOLICS.—The Rev Father Blackburne has succeeded the Rev Father Jones as priest in charge of the Roman Catholic Church in this town. Father Blackburne has but recently returned to this country from South Africa, having been through the siege of Kimberley, where unfortunately he contracted malarial fever from the effects of which he still suffers. It is to be hoped the Rev gentleman will have a speedy and effective recovery. CONCERT.—On Thursday evening last, a high- class concert provided by Mr Wheatley was given in the New Market Hall. The artistes engaged were Messrs B. Ollerhead, F. Thompson, F. Rounsden, F. Collinson, Maldwyn Humphreys, R.A.M., and Miss Norah Rich, R.A.M., London. The duties of accompanist was ably performed by Mr C, Panchen. The programme was as follows :—String quartette, G. Major, Allegro Vivace, Minuetto, Molto Allegro; song, All love can say," Mr Maldwyn Humphreys; song, "She wandered down the mountain side," Miss Rich 'cello solo. Adagio." Mr Collinson; song, There's a land," song. Husheen," Miss Rich string quartette, G., Minor, Allegro Moder- ato. Poco Adagio. Scherzo song, River of Dart," Mr Maldwyn Humphreys violin solo. Salut, Dance Tziganes, Mr B. Ollerhead song, Little Water- cress," Miss Rich string quartette, E. flat, Adagio Allegro, Canzonetta, Andante, Allegro e vivace. THE PAXTON SOCIETY.-Professor Murray, U.C.W., favoured the above society at their meeting on Wednesday evening with a highly instructive and interesting lecture on "The Food of Plants." illustrating the same with numerous scientific demonstrations, in which Mr. Murray was assisted by Mr. Piddock. The value of such lectures cannot be over-estimated, and it is hoped Mr. Murray will be able to favour the society again at no distant date. At the next meeting a paper on Cottage Gardening will be read by Mr. Hughes, Brynamlwg. N.S.P.C.C.—The monthly meeting of the Execu- tive Committee for the Oswestry, Montgomery- j shire and Aberystwyth Branch was held at the Local Office at Oswestry on Thursday, Mr A. Wynne Corrie, presiding. The Hon Secretary (Mr C. P. Gasquoine), reported that during the month Inspector Burdett had visited Montgomery, New- town, and other parts of the district. Eleven new cases were reported and investigated during the month, and warnings given in each case. It was stated that no prosecution is undertaken by the Central Office of;the Society without the knowledge of the Local Hon. Secretary or the Committee. Lady Evans of Lovesgrove, Aberystwyth, has been elected a vice-president of the Branch. DRAUGHTS.—In connection with this game, a meeting was held at the Market Hall on Friday evening last to consider the advisability of organ- ising a. draughts club and a town championship tournament. The majority present considered it inopportune to form a club, and decided to have a championship tournament open to residents in the borough of Aberystwyth. The principle on which the championship is to be determined shall be a similar one to that adopted in football leagues, viz,, by points. Each entrant shall play a match of three games with each of the other entrants and for each game won, two points shall be registered, a draw registering one point. A committee has been appointed to arrange all details, and met for that purpose on Tuesday evening, the 8th inst. The committee already formed consists of the following (wrtth power to add to their number) Messrs J. T. Davies, J. G. Jones, J. D. Williams, T. Rees, J. R. Jones, John Roberts, J. Barson, D. M. Hamer, T. Morgan. D. Dichards, W. J. Mills, J. Cleaton Thomas, W. H. Jones, and John E. Jones, the two latter acting as treasurer and secretary respectively. CHARGE AGAINST A DOCTOR.—The adjourned hearing of the case in which Dr Beddoes, North Parade, is charged with having used threats toward John Williams, mason, Bryn-place, Aberystwyth, came on at the Police Station on Saturday last be- fore Messrs John Morgan and R. Jenkin Jones. Defendant, on being called, did not put in an ap- pearance. Mr A. J. Hughes, who appeared for the complainant, applied for an adjournment of the case as the defendant did not appear, and he had no wish to be vindictive in the matter. He was anxious that every opportunity should be given to the defendant to appear in answer to his recognis- ances, although, perhaps, the court felt it theii duty to issue a warrant for his apprehension for not appear- ing. The Bench deliberated for some time, and then stated that Dr Beddoes had not been courteous to the court, but they would comply with the appli- cation of Mr A. J. Hughes on behalf of the com- plainant, and would adjourn till Friday next at 3 p.m. The clerk was ordered to give notice to the defendant and his surety of the adjournment of the case. UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF WALES—ABERYST- WYTH AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENT—SUCCESS OF STUDENTS.—At the examination for the national diploma in agriculture, recently held at the York- shire College, Leeds, Aberystwyth College stands alone at the top of the list for the whole Kingdom in the number of successes, and has almost estab- lished a record. Mr K. J. Thompson, a degree student and a Shropshire scholar, was placed third on the list; and Mr John Roberts, Perfeddnant. Towyn, a Merionethshire scholar, was placed fourth in order of merit-both receiving the title N.D.A.— while Mr S. Blore, a Staffordshire scholar, obtained a very high place in the first division. Formerly there were two separate examinations held-one by the Royal Agricultural Society of England, and the other by the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland: but last year the two societies amalga- mated, with the result that the standard of the exa- mination was very much raised, as shown by the fact that the percentage of successful candidates this year was below 30 per cent. Such a result is extremely gratifying, and speaks well for the training of the students in the agricultural department of this college under Mr D. D. Williams, who fully main- tains his high reputation as a lecturer when at Aspatria College. CEREDIGION CRICKET CLUB.—This club will commence its season on Saturday next, when the team will travel to Lampeter to play St. David's College. Practice at the nets has already begun, and a good pitch has been secured on the Vicarage Field. Charlie Parry the well-known football player has been engaged by the club as grounds- man and professional, and the club has every reason to look forward to a successful season. The officers of the club tor this season are as followsPresi- dent, Sir Griffith Evans; captain, Mr F. C. Boycott; vice-captain, Mr Gaer Jones; hon. treasurer, Mr T. H. Edwards; hon. sec., Mr Stanley Griffith-Jones; hon. official umpire, Mr E. K. Thompson; commit- tee, Messrs J. D. Perrott, D. H. Davies, W. L1. Footman, R. B. Wilson, J. D. Gifford, W. M. Jones Parry, G. Yearsley, J. C. Rea, and Tudor Jones. The team selected to play St. David's College on Saturday next is as follows: F. E. Boycott (capt.), Gaer Jones, S. Griffith Jones, J. D. Gifford, G. Yearsley, C. Jones, S. Peake, G. Jenkins, and C. Parry. The principal fixtures for the season are as follows:— May 12 Lampeter College at Lam Deter 19 U.C.W. » Home „ 26 Roval Welsh Warehouse Newtown „ 30 Dolgelley » Dolgellley June 2 Machynlleth » Machynlleth „ 6 U.C.W. Home 9 „ 16 Aberdovey »» Aberdovey „ 23 Montgomery „ Montgomery 30 Towyn Towyn July 7 Machynlleth „ Home „ 14 Pwllheli „ Home „ 21 St. Mary's Hall Home 28 Aug. 4 Visitors „ „ 6 Montgomery „ Home „ 11 Towyn „ Home „ 18 Aberdovey „ Home „ 25 Royal Welsh Warehouse Home Lovesgrove Lovesgrove We shall continue throughout the season to give fall reports of all the matches. j TRANSFER.—A the Petty Sessions on Wednes- day, the licence of No. 24, Great Darkgate-street, was transferred from Miss Smith to Mr Christopher Taylor, of Walsall. To THE BANKS OF FAIR Tivy.-Tlic members of the Shiloh, Tabernacle and Salem Sunday Schools will make their annual trip to Lampeter on Whit- Tuesday and not to Builth as mentioned in our issue of last week. MORE EXCURSIONS.—The Ystwyth Lodge of Good Templars will make their second annual outing on Wednesday 23rd when they will proceed by brakes to Trawscoed, returning to Llanilar for tea. On the Wednesday afternoon following the Shop Assistants will go to Devil's Bridge. LADY CRAWSHAW BAILEY who paid a short visit to Aberystwyth at Easter intends to spend the summer in our town and has taken a suite of rooms at the Hotel Cambria. Sir Crawshaw Bailey was a frequent visitor to Aberystwyth in years gone by, and we are glad to learn he is about to renew his acquaintance with the town. HORSE FAIR.—The half-yearly horse fair was held at the Smithfield on Monday. It was ex- pected that good business would be done as scores of dealers had arrived in readiness during the previous week. The supply of horses and cattle was much larger than usual and was only equalled by the demand. Cart horses sold well the prices varying from P.30 to £50. A two-year old carter the property of Mr Parry Tyllwyd, was sold for P-37. Cobs and ponies sold at high prices. The average prices being from L20 to £ 35. The aver- age prices for colts, and yearling foals, were from £9 to E15. Fifty-four truck loads of animals were sent away from the station compared with 39 last year. SCHOOL BOARD.—The ordinary meeting of the above Board was held at the Board School on Tuesday evening when there were present MrWm. Thomas (in the chair) the Ven. Archdeacon Protheroe, Rev. T. Levi and rr. T. Hall. The usual bills were ordered to be paid. A precept for the summer half year for C400 was drawn out. The clerk read an account of recommendations made at a special meeting of the Board held on Saturday April 28th re alteration in the Bye-laws and the training of pupil teachers. The clerk was authorised to get black boards fixed in the walls of the boys' department. Mr. Peter Jones and the Ven. Archdeacon Protheroe were appointed visiting committee for the coming month. The attendance at the various schools was reported upon by Ir. D. A. Lloyd attendance officer. The attendance during April was as follows :—Board school boys' department 92 per cent.; Girls' 87; Infants 88'5; National School, boys 85 per cent.; girls' 81 Infants 83; Penparciau 72 per cent. THE BI-MONTHLY MEETING of the Sunday Schools of the Calvinistic Methodists in the Aber- ystwyth district was held on Sunday May 6th at Capel Sion. The President is Mr Thomas Owens, County Schools, Aberystwyth; Secretary, Mr Abraham Joel, Trefechan; and Treasurer, Mr Daniel Thomas, draper, Little Darkgate-street. Aberystwyth. The first meeting was held at 9 30 in the morning, when the Rev John Davies, Pennant introduced the service, and the children were catechised in the 8th and 9th chapters of the Holwyddoreg," by Mr Morgan Williams, Saron, Llanbadarn, and Mr J. H. Rowe, Waen, an auxiliary of Shiloh, Aberystwyth. The children had been well prepared, and were prompt and intelligent in their answers. They also sang some suitable hymns in a very effective way. The meeting was closed with prayer by the Rev John Davies. At 11 o'clock, the teachers' meeting was held, and after the returns for the last two months had been received, and the minutes of the last meet- ing confirmed, the teachers were catechised by the president upon certain -aspects of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. A very useful and interesting meeting was brought to a close with prayer by Mr. John Jones, Horeb. In the afternoon at 2 o'clock the Sunday schools of Capel Seion and Pantycrug were catechised by the president in the 8th chapter of the "Christian Instructor" on "The Work of the Holy Spirit," and evinced a good deal of intel- ligence and apprehension of the important truths dealt with in the chapter. This meeting -as closed with prayer by Mr Morgan Williams, Llan- badarn. At four o'clock another Teachers' Meeting was held to receive the report of the Secretary in regard to the returns from the schools as compared with each other, and with the previous two months. A letter of resignation from Superintendent Phillips of his office as district examiner was read, but a unanimous desire was expressed to ask him to re- consider his decision, and strong hopes were enter- tained that he would continue for another year. The contributions from the various schools towards the expenses of the annual meeting were received by the Treasurer, and those who were prepared that day were urged to be faithful to send them to the Treasurer before the 23rd instant, when the annual meeting will be held at Libanus Chapel, Borth. All the schools were also exhorted to send representatives to the meetings on that date. The arrangements for the next bi-monthly meeting were made known, and the subjects for catechising and addresses were distributed. The next Meeting will be held at Ebenezer, Penparke, on Sunday, July 15th. In the evening at 6 p.m., a large audience came together and the service having been introduced by Mr. John Jones. Horeb, addresses were delivered by Mr Thomas, Salem, on Our young people and their work with religion, and how to get them to engage in it." by Mr. W. J. Bennett, Bath-street, on The Book of Proverbs, its chief characteristics and lessons," by a friend from Shiloh, on The duty of teachers to prepare for, and be faithful in their classes," by the president, on The duty of members of the Sunday School to be total abstainers," and by Rev. J. Davies, on the work of the day exhorting the young people to be faithful and diligent in their attendance at the Sunday School, and in the observance of the Sabbath, as well as all Christian virtues. A very successful meeting was brought to a close with prayer by the secretary, Mr. Abraham Joel. VALE OF RHEIDOL LIGHT RAILWAY. The Vale of Rheidol Light Railway Bill came on Wednesday week before the Chairman of Ways and Means, rr. J. W. Lowther. Its object is to extend the period for the purchase of the lines and for the construction of the authorised railway between Aberystwyth and Devil's Bridge. The Bill which was introduced by Mr Vaughan Davies and Major Pryce Jones, was ordered to be reported to the House for the third reading.

Celtic Eisteddfod. The fifth annual eisteddfod in connection with the Celtic Society of the Aberystwyth College was held in the Examination Hall last Monday evening. The hall was crowded, and a most enjoyable evening was spent, some of the competitions being most keenly appreciated by the audience. The chair was occupied by Principal Roberts, and the meeting was conducted by Professor Edwards, who can never be excelled in the art of keeping any meeting of this kind bright and refreshing to the his lin-ely wit and his humorous comments always putting the audience in the best of moods. The musical adjudicator was Mr. David Jenkins, Mus. Bac. The following were the awards Contralto solo, "Glory to Thee," (1) Miss Russell,i(2) Miss Katie Thomas. The prize of a guinea generously given by Mr. Applcton for the best design suitable for the title page of a History of the U.C.W., was awarded to Ben Morgan. Three competitors appeared on the stage for the Recitation, the prize being awarded to Miss Banburv. Englyn to "Logic;" four had sent in er.glynion, that of E. O. Jones getting the prize. Quartette, "Good-night, beloved;" this was a very interesting competition, for which 3 parties had entered; the first, prize was awarded to Misses Maggie Evans and Katie Thomas and Messrs W. O. Edwards and D. Teify Davies the second prize to Misses Marsh and Borley, and Messrs E. D. Griffiths and H. M. Third. There were 10 entries for the Translation, the prize being divided between H. D. Thomas and John James. There was only one entry for the Duett (Soprano and Alto), "Th?y shall hunger no more," Misses Nellie Jones and Katie Thomas, who were adjudged well worthy of the prize. Ladies' choir, Nos Galan; a large amount of in- terest was felt in this competition. Two parties com- peted, (I) Gwalia. conducted by Miss Katie Thomas; (2) Cymru, under the leadership of Miss Mary Parry. Both choirs gave a gocd rendering. In his adjudica- tion Mr Jenkins said that the latter choir surpassed the former both in balance and in attention to light and shade. So the first prize was awarded to No. 2, and the second prize to No. 1. The prize for the essay on "The Characteristics in style of Elis Wyn, Morgan Lhvyd, and Theopbilus Evans was given to D. Hopkin. Tenor solo, Blessed is the man two entries, and both came in for a great deal "of praise from the adjudicator. W. 0. Edwards received the first prize and Ben Morgan the second. The next item was the most exciting one of the evening, viz., the chairing of the bard, A handsome chair was offered for the best ode in any metre on "Ieuenctyd (Youth) not to exceed 250 lines. After summoning the Bards of the Gorsedd and ranging them in a half- circle around the chair, Professor Edwards read the adjudication of Professor J. Morris Jones, Bangor. Two odes had been sent in, one of which was well worthy of the chair, that of "Micwy," who was asked to stand up in his place. All eyes were im- mediately turned on M. H. Jones, who had answered to the summons. Two bards were sent to conduct him forward, and he was brought on te the stage amid the blaring of trumpets. The unsheathed sword was held over his head, and Professor Edwards being satisfied that there was "Hedd- wch," here if not in South Africa, declared M. H. Jones to be the chaired bard of the College for 1900. Soprano solo, 1 Miss Marsh, 2 Miss Nellie Jones, Bass solo, "Lead, Kindly Light." out of 5 who had entered for this competition 3 survived the ordeal of a pre- liminary test. The first prize was awarded to D. Teify Davies and the second to C. E. Ollett. The audience most enthusiastically cheered the former's excellent rendering of the solo. Male voice competi- tion, "Roman Soldiers," (Protherce). This was an exolting competition and was looked forward to with great interest. Two parties had entered, 1 Cymro- dorion, conducted by W. O. Edwards; 2 Tiberiaid, under the leadership of E. Pearson Jones. The first prize was awarded to No. 2 and the second prize to No. 1. The singing of the National Anthem brought a most enjoyable evening to a close. The eisteddfod was a decided success, and great praise should be bestowed on the indefatigable secretaries, Ivor Thomas and Robert Davies, for the able manner in which everything was arranged. ■■■ <ut

Inquest at the Infirmary. An inquest was conducted on Saturday last by Mr John Evans, solicitor (district coroner), touching the death of Thomas James, Glanystwyth, near Llanilar, cowman, who died at the Infirmary on the previous day, at the age of 54 years. The following were the jurors :—Messrs R. W. Julian (foreman), Queen's-road; J. P. Thomas, Great Darkgate-street; R. Humphrey Woodcock Owen, Evan Lloyd, and D. J. Lewis, Northgate-street; Nelson Nelson, 6, North-road; Evan Edwards, Cambrian-street; William Roberts, Crynfryn j Buildings; David Davies, 10, Veynor-street; John Owen, Penmaesglas-road; and John Lloyd, Skinner- street. The jury having viewed the body. Dr Alfred Hugh James, resident surgeon at the Infirmary, said that Thomas James was a native of Herefordshire, and came to the Infirmary from Glanystwyth. He died about three o'clock on the 4th of May. He was admitted to the Infirmary on the 19th of April suffering from a malignant growth of the breast. He attended to him from that date to his death. The Coroner: Did he want to be operated on 7 Dr James Yes. He came here with the inten- tion of having the growth removed. The Coroner: When did you decide to operate on him 1 Dr James: We decided to operate on him on Friday, and all the usual preparations were made. The Coroner: Who was present when the opera- tion was performed ? Dr James: Dr Thomas, Dr Morgan, Miss Chandler (matron), the nurse, and myself. The Coroner: Who administered the chloroform Dr James: I did. The Coroner: How long did he live after you administered the chloroform ? Dr James He died immediately, about a minute and a half afterwards. The Coroner: How long does it take to get a patient under the influence of chloroform ? Dr James: From seven to twelve minutes. The Coroner: So the operation had not com- menced ? Dr James: No. The Coroner What was his death due to ? Dr James: It was due to cardiac failure, brought on by the state of his constitution and his nervous temperament. Dr Bassett Jones has since made a post-mortem examination of the body. Dr James, continuing, said in his opinion deceased was not overdosed with chloroform. He could not say whether the man would be alive now or not if he had administered no chloroform. Knowing the state of his constitution, he did not think be could have possibly gone through that operation without chloroform. He used a properly graduated bottle, and it would have been impossible for him to have given him an overdose. The Coroner (to jurymen): Has any of you any- thing to ask Dr James ? Mr J. P. Thomas: I think Dr James has made a clear statement. Dr Bassett Jones was then called. He said he made a post-mortem examination of the body of the deceased and he attributed his death to cardiac failure. All his organs were in a state of increased hardness due to constitutional disease. He was suffering from cancer, and he was not likely to live long. He would not have dared to undertake the operation without administering chloroform. De- ceased lived in India as a soldier about 32 years ago, where he led a fast life. Mr J. P. Thomas: How long do you think he would have lived in that state? Mr J. Lewis I believe he would still be living if the ( .iloroform was administered properly. The Coroner then called Dr James, and asked him did he think that the patient had been overdosed with chloroform 1 Dr James No, and in my opinion I do not know whether he would have lived. The Coroner: I wish all you jurors would keep your opinions until the end, and as you know what the state of his constitution was would you expect he would have gone through that operation. Mr J. P. Thomas: In administering the chloro- form did you use a graduated bottle ? Dr James I did. Mr J. P. Thomas Therefore, it was impossible for you to give him an overdose. Dr James: Yes. The Coroner Has any of you any question to ask Dr James, again ? I do not think it fair for any juror to go out without asking any questions which would throw light on the matter, aad then go out and say that the thing has been hushed up. Mr J. Lewis: There must be something wrong that he died in a minute-and-a-half afterwards. The Coroner: Putting it. in a vulgar way, the man died of funk. Mr J. P. Thomas: Do I understand that all his organs were bad ? Dr Bassett Jones:" Yes. The Coroner: Having seen the man, would you have undertaken the operation without chloroform? Dr Bassett Jones: No; of course not. The Coroner: Would it be possible for the man to die of fear ? Dr Bassett Jones: Yes he was in a very nervous state. The Coroner then said that both doctors had told them that they would not dare to operate without chloroform. Mr J. Lewis: My opinion is that an extra dose was given, and that not properly. Mr Julian (foreman) then asked if there was an extra dose of chloroform given. The Coroner: No, if death had been due to an overdose of chloroform, there would have bee* some signs in the postmortem examination, would there not doctor ? Dr. Bassett Jones: Yes. The Coroner: Suggestions have been made that the matter is being hushed up. If we cannot get some further evidence to enlighten the matter, I will adjourn the inquest and come here half-a- J dozen times before anyone shall say that the matter has been hushed up. If there is any suggestion or any insinuation to be made, now is the time to make it. The room was then cleared for the jury to con- sider their verdict, and when the public were re-admitted, the foreman announced that there was no difference of opinion amongst the jurymen, and that the questions raised as to an overdose of chloroform had been withdrawn. Their verdict was that death was due to failure of the heart's action.

Assault by a Militiaman. On Thursday last, at Aberystwyth Police Station, Samuel Davies, collier, Cilfynydd, Glamorganshire, was brought up in oustody charged with assaulting P.C. Rowlands whilst in the execution of his duty on the previous day. Prisoner was a member of the Cardiganshire Artillery (Militia). Complainant said that at 12-40 p.m. on Wednesday last he was coming down Northgate-street with a woman in his custody. He was stopped opposite the Lisburne Arms by the accused, who said he would not allow him to take the woman any further. He (the con- stable) told him to clear away, as it was his duty to take her to the Police Station. Prisoner then | struck him on the nose, and also dealt him three or j four blows on the side of the head, which felled | him to the ground. Whilst in that position he re- I ceived a kick on the side of the temple, but could not say who dealt it. When he got up he saw de- fendant running towards the Eagle Foundry. He was unconscious from the time he received the kick until he was helped to his feet again by a gentle- man. He was then assisted to No 36, Northgate- street. He was interfered with by someone else besides the defendant, but he could not say who they were. They were all militiamen. He went to the Militia Barracks that morning, and saw a nnm- ber of men drawn up, and he picked out the de- fendant from the rear rank. Alfred Williams, 11, Gogerddan-cottages, said be saw the constable at- tacked by about half-a-dozen men, and thought the accused was one of them.—Evan Roberts, 3, Crynfryn Buildings, said he saw the accused go forward and strike the complainant in the face. He struck him several times afterwards, and also on the ground.—Sergeant David Phillips said that at about 10 a.m. that day he arrested the accused on a warrant. When the warrant was read to him he replied I did not assault the complainant." —Prisoner elected to give evidence on his own behalf to account for his movements on the day in question. He had been drinking at several public- houses, but was not in North-parade or Northgate- street at all between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. He ad- mitted, however, that he had not a clear recollection of what took place during the day.- The Bench considered the case proved, and sentenced the prisoner to three months imprison- ment with hard labour.

LLANILAR. PETTY SESSIONS. These sessions were held on Friday last, before Messrs J. E. Hughes and Thomas Griffiths. TRESPASS.—Thomas Hopkins, Nantybyr, GwnnwIf Lower, charged Hugh Jones, Pantymwyn, Llanafan, with trespassing in search of game in the day time in Maenarthur Wood, Llanafan, on the 21st April. Accused was fined P.1 and costs. j SCHOOL ATTENDANCE.—David Ellis, Commins, Llangwyryfon, school attendance officer, summoned Evan Evans, Penfor, Llanrhystyd, with neglecting to send his son, John Morgan, regularly to school. Fined 2s. 6d. The same defendant was also summoned in respect of his son Richard and his daughter Rachel. A fine of 2s 6d was imposed in the first case, and an order to attend was made in the second.—Evan Jones, Royal Oak; Evan Jones, Cnwc; and David Davies, Berry Lodge, all of Llanrhystyd, were summoned for similar offences. Orders to attend were made in the first and third cases, and the second was withdrawn.—Lewis Morgan, Caenewydd, and William Griffiths, Pen- treissaf, Llanrhystyd, were also summoned to answer the same offence. A fine of 2s 6d was imposed on the former defendant, and the latter case was adjourned.

Cardigan County Governing Body. The quarterly meeting of the Cardigan County Go- verning Body was held on Wednesday at the Town Hall, Lampeter. The following members were pre- sent :—Messrs. D. C. Roberts, Aberystwyth; L. J. Roberts, H.M. Inspector (for Aberayron); Jenkin Lloyd and Dr. Lloyd, Tregarn, Rev. Gwilym Evans, Aberayron; J. C. Harford, Lampeter; Rev. William James and Dr. Evans, Llandyssul; and Mrs. James, Broncastell, with Mr. H. C. Fryer (olerk). ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN. Mr D. C. Roberts having been voted to the chair pro tem, the Clerk announced that Principal Roberts de- finitely declined to accept office as chairman for the ensuing year. He would try to attend as often as he could, but under no circumstances would he take the chair again. Mr D. C. Roberts, Mr Gwilym Evans, and Mr J. C. Harford were then proposed in turn, but the three declined. Dr Evans then proposed the name of Rev. Thomas James, Llandyssul, who was not present that day, but usually attended. He had done a great deal for education in the past in the county. The Rev Wm. James seconded, and the proposition was unanimously agreed to. LETTEUS OF APOLOGY. The Clerk reported that he had received letters, re- gretting their inability to attend, from Principal T. F. Roberts and Mrs Jessy Williams, Aberystwyth, the latter owing to the visit of H.M.'s Chief Inspector to the Aberystwyth County School. The Chairman pointed out that that would probably account for the absense of Alderman C. M. Williams and other members from Aberystwyth. CARDIGAN FREE SCHOOL. The Clerk said he had received correspondence as to the proposed compromise with the Cardigan Town Council with regard to the Free School premises in the Guild Hall at Cardigan. The members would remember that it was decided to accept from the Corporation of Cardigan £ 12 a year for these rooms, and that that sum should be expended in scholarships for children of poor parents residing in the borough. A letter was read at the previous meeting from the Charity Commissioners, in which they said they could not so apply the money. He was then told to write to the Commissioners explaining the whole circum- stances of the case. He did that, and received the following reply on April 2nd :—" I am to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 28th ult., and to state that the provisions of the County Scheme are binding on the Commissioners equally with all parties interested, and that it is not seen that the provisions of the scheme .affecting the present point can bear any other construction than that placed on them in the letter addressed to you from this office on the 16th December last. JThe Clerk explained that at this interest in the Free School of Cardigan was part of the property of the County Governing Body, it must be used for the general fund and not allocated to any particular school. To meet that difficulty he suggested that [it might be necessary for the schema to be amended, and perhaps in the meantime the difficulty could be got over by the Governing Body making a grant every year of C12 to the Cardigan managers to be used in this way for scholarships until a binding agreement could be entered into. In reply to that the Secretary to the Commissioners said—"I am to add, with reference to the last paragraph of your letter, that it is not understood under what clause of the County Scheme the County Governing Body consider that it would be competent for them to make the annual grant referred to in the paragraph. The Clerk said of course there was no clause, but it was left to the Body to administer the fund in the way they thought best. He (the clerk) sent a copy of the letter to Mr, Morgan Richardson, as a member of this body and the Mayor of Cardigan, and asked him what he suggested should be done. Mr. Richardson replied that someone should interview the Charity Commissioners, and explain how the matter istood. He also said, if Mr Vaughan Davies, M.P., would accompany him, he would be very glad to go himself, as he knew the circumstances of the case. He (the Clerk) saw Mr Vaughan Davies, and he said he would be very glad to accompany Mr Richardson. That day he had received a letter from Mr Richardson which was to the effect that he had had an appointment with the Charity Commissioners on the previous Tuesday, and attended with Mr. Vaughan Davies. A promise was given then that they should hear in a few days whether the matter could be brought before the Board for re-considera- tion or not. The Commissioners object to local scholarships "on principle," but they could see some justification for an exception in the present case, and the chief points made were that they should have the approval of the other local boards acting under the Governing Body, and also that the rent charge of P-12 a year should be properly secured. He (Mr Richardson) explained that the represent- atives of the other boards sitting as members of the Governing Body understood their scheme and accepted it as a compromise. He also saw Sir Francis Mowatt at the Treasury, and understood from him that there would be no difficulty about their obtain- ing leave to charge their corporate property with the £ 12 annuity, but he promised to write to him agfun definitely. The Clerk said it seemed that the whole thing was now in course of settlement, and all they had to do was to wait until Mr Richardson heard further from the Commissioners DATES OF INSPECTION. The Clerk reported he had received a communica- tion from the Central Welsh Board fixing the date of the inspection of the different county schools as follows :-Abe ry-,t-,vvtl I. Alay 10th Tregaron, May 11th Llandyssul, May 15th; and Cardigan, May 16th. The Chief Inspector having asked for a conference with the Governing Body, the Clerk was directed to. call the next meeting at a date suitable to the Inspector. INSTRUCTION OF PUPIL TEACHERS. The Clerk reported having received from the Den- bigh County Governing Body copies of suggested scheme for pupil teachers' instruction, providing for the instruction of such teachers in the county schools. Mr L. J. Roberts explained that conferences had been held in Debighshire, and this scheme was the outcome. It had been practically adopted for the whole of Denbighshire, and he would like very much to see a scheme of a similar character recommended for Cardiganshire. The scheme having been read, it was decided that it be placed on the agenda for consideration at the next meeting. COOKERY INSTRUCTION. A report by Miss Bertha Jones upon her work as cookery instructress during the past quarter was read She expressed herself pleased with the pro- gress made, but the cooking-stove at Aberystwyth was not large enough, and at Tregaron she had only half the utensils required. The Clerk said there was a strong desire to form a cookery class for women at Aberayron, and applica- tion had been made for the services of Miss Jones. It was agreed that Miss Jones be allowed to take such a class, provided that it did not interfere with her present duties. On the motion of Mr. Jenkin Lloyd, seconded by Dr. Evans, it was decided that the School managers in each district be a committee to supervise the cookery and laundry instruction provided at their schools. MANUAL INSTRUCTION. The question of the propriety of making further provision for manual instruction in the County Schools was placed on the agenda, but was deferred to the next meeting, the Clerk in the meantime to get information on the subject from Glamorganshire and Carnarvonshire. MEETING PLACES. Dr. Evans gave notice that he would move at the next meeting the advisability of holding the meet- ings of the Body at the different places where the schools were situated.

London Letter. [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT. I London, Wednesday Afternoon. THE NAVAL BRIGADE. Seldom have I seen such genuine en- thusiasm in London as on Monday last when the men who saved Ladysmith marched from Victoria to the City. It is said that the crowd was larger than it has ever been on any similar occasion, but I venture to say that only a comparatively small portion of it caught as much as a glimpse of the bold brigade. There were thousands upon thou- sands of people all along the Embankment, and in some places the sailors had great difficulty in getting along. Owing to the great crush only those who stood in the front rank had a chance of seeing the men, and much disappointment is consequently felt. It is not often that Londoners have the chance of welcoming the heroes of the Nary, but this time they did so with a heartiness which will not easily be for: gotten. THE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOLS. The report of the Charity Commissioners on the working of the Welsh Intermediate Schools has just been issued, and is as usual a very interesting document. The Com- missioners state that one very striking feature in the personnel of the scholars is that 73 per cent of them are drawn from the Elementary Schools, and not from private adventure schools. This shows that the majority of the scholars belong to the lower class, if in Wales we can draw any distinction between the lower class and the middle class. I think it is true that the so-called middle class people in Wales are wise enough to send their children to the Board and National Schools rather than trust them to teachers who have often neither training nor learning. Sound pro- gress is reported in the work of the schools. The following paragraph is, however, especially interesting: An aptitude for the literary side of education, accompanied with a certain impatience of the demands made by severe and exact strides is discernible. Under the head of science, we hear incidentally of a too uniform tendency to reproduce the text book, of vague notions of the sequence of steps in the proof of a geometrical proposition, of the absence of clear ideas as to the nature of experimental verification." On the other hand we may quote the following passages from the report of the Examiner in Literature:—" The papers sent in were almost invariably good, and many were excellent, displaying an ap- preciation of the spirit and significance of the literary masterpieces studied during the year. The work of the juniors was also fre- quently of high quality. In general it has struck me that the schools that entered for it seemed to find literature a congenial sub- ject, the pupils evidently working con aniore. I believe that in the study of literature Welsh schools may attain high distinction, and do most important work in the service of mental and moral culture." JUDICIAL STATISTICS. The criminal statistics for the year have just been published, and they reveal some very curious facts. In the annual average of crimes in proportion to population, Celtic counties occupy the seven lowest places, all of them under 100 crimes per 100,000 popu- lation. These counties are Cornwall, Pem- broke, Carmarthen, Westmoreland, Cardigan, Merioneth, and Anglesey. Radnor and Brecon, which are both agricultural coun- ties, are very high in the list, Radnor having 152, and Brecon 191 crimes per 100,000. In the column of offences against morals, Anglesey, Cardigan, and Carmarthen occupy the three lowest places in the list with '40, 1-06, and 1-35 crimes per 100,000 popu- lation respectively, while Radnor and Glamorgan occupy the highest places in the list with 7-63 and 7'38 respectively. What can account for the fact that Radnorshire should be so notoriously criminal a county ? Cardiganshire is at the bottom of the list, i.e., is among the counties having the lowest number of offences, except in the matter of drunkenness. Here it is sad to relate there is no Welsh county in the two lowest classes, but there are six in the third class having between 250 and 500 offences per 100,000 of the population. The Temperance Party has plenty of work cut out for it in Wales, and it is a disgrace that a country which is so free rom all other kinds of crime, shnnld h!'lVA this stigma upon its good name. The pro- portion of drunkenness per 100,000 inhabit- ants for the whole of England is 593, for Wales it is 835. There are some very ob- vious conclusions to be drawn from these facts, but I leave it to the readers of the Welsh Gazette to draw them for themselves.